The American Society for Rickettsiology was organized in 1979 to foster exchange of information among American scientists engaged in research on Rickettsiae and Rickettsial diseases.
The field encompasses a wide range of human pathogens and includes members of the genera Anaplasma, Bartonella, Coxiella, Ehrlichia, Orientia and Rickettsia.
Currently, about 200 scientists and students are members of this organization and meetings are held annually.
The purpose of this organization is to:
- Encourage basic and applied research in all aspects of rickettsiology and rickettsial diseases
- Foster exchange of information among American scientists engaged in research on rickettsiae and rickettsial diseases through periodic meetings and communication
- Encourage recruitment and training of young scientists in rickettsiology and rickettsial diseases
- Consider and make recommendations on scientific policy matters pertaining to rickettsiae and rickettsial diseases as may be desirable or necessary for the advancement of basic and applied knowledge in this field
- Advise governmental and health agencies, when appropriate, on matters relevant to rickettsiae and rickettsial diseases
- Foster scientific exchange between American rickettsiologists and their counterparts in other countries
- Interact in an appropriate manner with other scientific organizations as required and desirable